by: Ronni Warshaw

Everyone thinks they know how to choose a wedding gown. What most women don't realize is fabrics, style and measurements can influence the style of wedding dress that best compliments a particular body type.

This article will help you choose the right wedding dress style for your own body shape.

FULL FIGURED WOMEN

If you are a full figured woman the best silhouette is the A- Line style. A-line style lengthens the whole body without drawing attention to your waistline. The empire waist is another good choice. The empire is narrowest just below the bust and conceals your waist and hips.

Many plus size girls tend to purchase wedding gowns that cover a lot of skin. If religion isn't an issue don't be afraid to show some skin. Skin is sexy and showing your arms and neckline can often make one appear smaller.

Deep V necks and scoop necks flatter curvy figures and always look best on full figured women.

PETITE

A-line wedding dresses are also flattering on petite women. As we stated earlier, this style lengthens the body. Sheaths seem to shorten a small body even more, so petit women should avoid Sheath style wedding dresses. Also steer clear of very full skirts which will make you look 'bottom heavy'. You want to keep your wedding dress in proportion to your body.

Be careful with strapless. A petite woman may have to lift her arms to reach up to her new husband. A cap sleeve gives the feeling of a strapless gown and also serves a practical purpose in holding the gown in place.

LARGE BUSTED WOMEN

Off the shoulder gowns look wonderful on a full bust. It draws our attention upward, emphasizes the shoulders and minimizes the chest. Keep your skirt narrow. Wearing a full skirt will make you look large on top and bottom.

BOTTOM HEAVY

Women who are larger through their hips and buttocks should look for a wedding dress that focuses on their upper body preferably with a full skirt.

Show your arms back and bustline.

A corset style bodice with lacing will highlight your upper body. We want to draw attention away from your hips. Avoid pleats or gathered fabric around the waist. An A-line skirted wedding dress always works the best.